President Emeritus | Président Émérite : Baird Knechtel

Baird Knechtel, viola, is a graduate of the University of Toronto, the Royal Conservatory (ARCT) and the Eastman School of Music (M.M). He has performed in all the major venues in Toronto with symphonic, opera, ballet and chamber orchestras. A founding member of the Chamber Players of Toronto, Baird most enjoys playing chamber music and solos. He has given many recitals in the U.S. and Canada, and is listed in the International, "Who's Who", in music.

​Baird was honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award by the Canadian Viola Society for his contribution to the viola and its repertoire. He also premiered a Concerto for Viola and String Orchestra (with piano reduction) by the 18th century German composer J.G. Knechtel and the Sonata for Viola and Piano in One Movement by Dr. John Selleck at the 30th Anniversary celebration of the founding of the CVS, held at the University of Montreal October 10/11 2009. Baird received his 50 year pin from the Toronto Musicians Association on February 22, 2010.